Innehållsförteckning för Issue 39 från Melbourne Wedding & Bride

Marriage is one of humanity’s oldest institutions, dating back more than 4000 years, but is still something that elicits endless excitement. The concept continues to evolve, reflecting broader societal changes and an ongoing pursuit of equality and personal fulfillment. Weddings, a public celebration of marriage, symbolise the enduring desire to commemorate love and commitment. I hope this edition of Melbourne Wedding & Bride helps guide you in planning your dream wedding as you embark on the greatest adventure of all. We’ve tied the knot between inspiration and advice from the people who know the wedding industry the best. From tips on choosing the right suit for the season and venue (page 158) to upcoming trending flower arrangements (page 210) and a close look at the journey of designing your own…

Wedding planners can be an integral fixture of the wedding planning process. Whether it’s handholding and encouragement, or aesthetic direction and budgets, planners appeal to many with their all-hands-on-deck approach, and often, their wealth of experience. Melbourne Wedding & Bride’s Hannah McDonald sits down with Amie Laiyton, the founder, owner and lead coordinator at Events With Amie, to talk about the role of wedding planners, tips for organisation and budgeting, and whether you should enlist one for your big day. "…I HELP ‘BLUE COLLAR COUPLES’ CREATE THE PERFECT DAY WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK!” Events With Amie is an event planning business born from Laiyton’s more than a decade of experience in the wedding industry, alongside accreditations in Business Administration and Event Planning. “I’ve been in the industry since I was nineteen…

Lynch runs Fairytales Bridal Boutique with earnest passion, unwavering dedication and an innate sense of what makes a wedding day magical – fitting, since it runs in her family. Fairytales Bridal Boutique is a proud family-owned and -operated business that has been helping brides find their dream gowns for the past thirty years. “Now in its second generation, we’ve had the honour of working with thousands of brides, offering not only beautiful gowns but also heartfelt, personalised services that makes every visit memorable. Our commitment to quality, care and creating magical bridal experiences is at the heart of everything we do – and it’s what continues to set Fairytales Bridal Boutique apart today,” Lynch says. With so much experience in the industry, Lynch has overseen her fair share of dress…

Simon Curwood Jewellers have perfected the art of designing all types of jewellery. “Custom creating fine jewellery pieces for our clients is our specialty,” Curwood says. “Using the highest quality of materials, anything you can dream up we can craft for you – from dress rings, necklaces and pendants, to earrings, engagement and wedding rings and even more!” As the largest custom jeweller in Australia, and the official ring supplier for Married at First Sight, you can trust you are in capable hands with Simon Curwood Jewellers. “We believe that as we are all unique individuals, each person’s taste in jewellery varies and that is why we offer a completely customisable experience for our clients,” Curwood says. “I believe a wedding or engagement ring tells the unique story of a…

In the whirlwind lead-up to your wedding, emotions run high and stress levels can soar. From an early morning start filled with hair and makeup prep to dancing into the early hours of the next day, keeping your skin looking fresh and your makeup flawless can feel like a challenge. Amidst all the planning and tiny details, your bridal makeup should be a joyful part of the experience – a moment to focus on yourself and what makes you feel confident and beautiful. Much like finding your dream dress, discovering the perfect makeup look takes time, experimentation, and a clear vision of your overall aesthetic. With more brides embracing the idea of a second reception look, your makeup should be able to transform with you. Whether it’s adding a touch…

PHOTOGRAPHY BRIGHT LIGHT WEDDINGS 0423 402 066 www.brightlightweddings.com GOWN KHAWBUNG BRIDAL BOUTIQUE 34 Main Street, Croydon 0423 957 733 www.khawbungbridalhouse.com JEWELLERY ARTELIA JEWELLERY 243 Collins Street, Melbourne (03) 9639 7284 www.artelia.com.au MODEL Peggy – Vivien’s Models HAIR & MAKEUP MOBILE MAKEOVERS 0414 316 198 www.mobilemakeovershairandmakeup.com.au VENUE ORO SOLARIO 73A Rupert Street, Collingwood 0417 596 990 www.orosolario.com.au BOUQUET THE ART OF NATURE FLORAL STUDIO Pascoe Vale 0478 777 487 www.theartofnaturefloralstudio.com.au BOUQUET LILLYPAD FLOWERS Preston (03) 9460 2261 www.lillypad.com.au BOUQUET THE ART OF NATURE FLORAL STUDIO Pascoe Vale 0478 777 487 www.theartofnaturefloralstudio.com.au BOUQUET FLOWERS BY DEBBIE O’NEILL Croydon Hills 0412 513 354 www.debbieoneill.com.au BOUQUET BALASHI FLOWERS Doreen (03) 9717 8134 www.balashiflowers.com.au BOUQUET MY BOTANIC LIFE Ringwood 0417 551 837 www.mybotaniclife.com.au…

PHOTOGRAPHY BRIGHT LIGHT WEDDINGS 0423 402 066 www.brightlightweddings.com.au VENUE ORO SOLARIO 73A Rupert Street, Collingwood 0417 596 990 www.orosolario.com.au CAKE KAT’S CAKES MELBOURNE 0438 363 687 www.katscakes.com.au CAKE ALEKS BAKES 0406 049 991 www.aleksbakes.com CAKE COCOA & CRUMBS 0402 439 696 www.cocoaandcrumbs.com.au CAKE PARTY TIME CAKES 0411 735 701 @partytimecakes CAKE CAKES BY TASH 0418 425 473 www.cakesbytash.com.au…

Jess O’Neill, a self-proclaimed design nerd, has been working in the events industry for the past twelve years. “I started my business to bring my design passion and love for creating weddings to the market. I also strongly believe that the stress that often comes from wedding planning is unnecessary, and I want to take that away from couples so they can fully enjoy their engagement periods,” she says. She named the business after her mother, Margaret Ingle, who loved planning parties and events but preferred staying in the background, ensuring everyone else was having the time of their life. M.Ingle Events offers a full planning service that allows O’Neill and her team to take on all the communication, the stressful back-and-forth between couples and the vendors, contracts and the…

Long gone are the days where wedding ceremonies had to be a process steeped in tradition and legalities. For many years now, couples have been infusing their own unique twists to this crucial part of the wedding. From tearjerking, heartfelt vows to interesting, couple-specific props, the ceremony has become a section of the wedding for pairs to add their personal touch. Some incorporate symbolic rituals, like handfasting or sand blending, while others opt for humorous readings or include pets and loved ones in creative ways. Even if you don’t have anything quirky or ultra-specific in mind, the choice of celebrant is pivotal in telling your love story the way you want it to be told. In this all-important job, several elements are crucial: the language they use, the energy they…

Hayley Barberis has been singing at weddings and events for more than two decades. In 2006, she joined the newly minted Baker Boys. “I’ve really never looked back,” she says. “Weddings and parties are my happy place. How lucky am I to call them ‘the office’?” Barberis explains, “Baker Boys are a premium, customisable three to fourteen-piece band specialising in high-energy music for festivals, weddings, corporate events and private functions. We infuse every event with energy and fun and pride ourselves on filling dance floors.” Since it’s humble beginnings, Baker Boys has grown, shaped by the changing demands of the industry as well as their exuberant ingenuity. “I’ve started getting really interested in photography and taking photos on an old film camera. We realised how wonderful it would be if…

Brisbane’s Best, Twice In A Row Experience the difference with Ru Makeup, recognised as one of Brisbane’s most in demand makeup artists by Style Magazine for the second time in a row. Now, she’s bringing her expertise to Melbourne in January 2026 and is beyond excited to bring your dream look to life. Known for enhancing natural beauty with precision and artistry, Ru Blackwell is a master of creating striking looks that accentuate every feature flawlessly. Whether it’s a sultry cat-eyeliner, soft lips or smoldering eyes, each look she crafts is a true work of art. With a portfolio that includes top brands like Lorna Jane and Princess Polly, Ru brings a modern, edgy and aesthetic touch to every project. Ru Makeup ensures every client walks away feeling confident, radiant…

Bachelor and bachelorette parties have long been part of pre-wedding traditions in many cultures. But celebrating the transition from single life to married life with a ‘last hurrah’ doesn’t always resonate in a modern world where most couples live together well before tying the knot. Already enveloped in each other’s lives, couples also often belong to the same friendship groups, with friends of mixed genders, so having an exclusively all-girls or all-boys party might not feel quite right for some. Whether you want to call it a sten party, a hag party or a huck party, Jessica Muller from Melbourne Wedding & Bride looks into why lots of couples are opting for combined co-ed parties to create lasting memories that span both sides of the wedding party. Bucks parties can…

“My journey into tailoring wasn’t a choice – it was destiny,” Joseph says. “It’s woven into my DNA, passed down through generations, refined by experience, and perfected with passion.” Raised by his grandaunt, a seamstress, Joseph grew up “surrounded by the hum of sewing machines, the scent of freshly pressed fabrics, and the precision of needle and thread.” He reports that he could thread needles and cut patterns by the time he could walk and crafted his very first suit during a summer break from high school. In the early 2000s, Joseph found himself in New York City walking the runways as a fashion model, which is where he met a seasoned tailor who reignited his passion for the craft. “After years of working alongside experts, I decided to embark…

The Pressroom is keeping old-school charm alive with its beautifully handcrafted wedding stationery. Based in Ballarat, the boutique letterpress studio specialises in bespoke wedding invitations, business stationery and events that are as unique as the moments they celebrate. Every piece from The Pressroom is thoughtfully crafted using traditional letterpress and foiling techniques, resulting in tactile, one-of-a-kind creations you won’t want to put down. Seamer brings more than thirty years of graphic design experience and a passion for antique printing presses, with his company built on the foundations of craftsmanship and meaningful design. “We use antique presses, beautiful materials, and a whole lot of care to create bespoke invitations that not only look amazing but feel just as special as the day itself,” Seamer says. The talented team works closely with…

PHOTOGRAPHY BRIGHT LIGHT WEDDINGS 0423 402 066 www.brightlightweddings.com VENUE ORO SOLARIO 73A Rupert Street, Collingwood 0417 596 990 www.orosolario.com.au BUTTONHOLE BALASHI FLOWERS Doreen (03) 9717 8134 www.balashiflowers.com.au FLOWERS BY DEBBIE O’NEILL Croydon Hills 0412 513 354 www.debbieoneill.com.au MY BOTANIC LIFE Ringwood 0417 551 837 www.mybotaniclife.com.au LILLYPAD FLOWERS Preston (03) 9460 2261 www.lillypad.com.au THE ART OF NATURE FLORAL STUDIO Pascoe Vale 0478 777 487 www.theartofnaturefloralstudio.com.au…

Shannon and Kirsten O’Brien sprung into the wedding industry by beginning their mobile charcuterie business from sharing one simple love – incredible food. “We’ve always been fans of charcuterie, deli meats, and artesian cheeses, often enjoying them as a platter with friends. In fact, there’s a photo from our wedding day of Kirsten in the limousine, with a platter of charcuterie on the way to the ceremony - her one request, and a way to make sure she ate during the busy day. That moment sparked an idea: why not bring our passion for charcuterie to weddings?” The Grazing Frenchie offers custom charcuterie carts for each wedding. Standing out to your usual charcuterie board, the cart provides a fun, interactive way for guests to enjoy something flavourful and satisfying as…

Piron started the business with her partner, Rob, nine years ago, with the desire to share their beautiful property with others. “We host celebrations of all kinds, mostly weddings, but also birthdays, family getaways, corporate retreats and more,” Piron says. Bonfire Station is not just a country venue, but also a microbrewery. “We craft all our beers and ciders onsite, and in true family business style, Rob’s brother Phil is our master brewer.” Bonfire Station offers accommodation for up to fifty guests across a mix of private and bunk rooms. The accommodation is just a short walk away from the reception area, so everything and everyone is close by. Stay The Weekend “If it fits within budget, I highly recommend staying for at least one night, and ideally for the…

VENUE ORO SOLARIO 73A Rupert Street, Collingwood 0417 596 990 www.orosolario.com.au PHOTOGRAPHY BRIGHT LIGHT WEDDINGS 0423 402 066 www.brightlightweddings.com GOWN SANI Unit 1,120 James Street, Templestowe 0406 212 428 www.sani.com.au MODELS Luke Daniels – Vivien’s Models Katie Jarrett – Vivien’s Models JEWELLERY ARTELIA JEWELLERY 243 Collins Street, Melbourne (03) 9639 7284 www.artelia.com.au BOUQUET FLOWERS BY DEBBIE O’NEILL Croydon Hills 0412 513 354 www.debbieoneill.com.au HAIR & MAKEUP MOBILE MAKEOVERS 0414 316 198 www.mobilemakeovershairandmakeup.com.au GOWN BONITA COUTURE 440a Sydney Road, Brunswick 0431 484 655 www.bonitacouture.com.au GOWN THE EVENING BOUTIQUE 523 Sydney Road, Brunswick 392 Sydney Rd, Coburg 250 Somerton Rd, Roxburgh Park 0432 565 807 www.theeveningboutique.com.au SUIT SUITS VIBES 20/281 Marathon Boulevard, Craigieburn 0402 252 749 GOWN KHAWBUNG BRIDAL BOUTIQUE 34 Main Street, Croydon 0423 957 733 www.khawbungbridalhouse.com BOUQUET PRETTY POPPY FLOWER…

From Rebel Wilson to Millie Bobby Brown, weddings over the past year have showcased grand arches and centrepieces adorned with bright, white, angelic flowers. While these flowers evoke a timeless, classic feel, the minimalist trend is expected to take the wedding industry by storm. Lilly Mance, a seasoned expert in the floral industry, has been creating masterpieces since 2001 and now owns her own store. After purchasing a retail florist in Reservoir, Mance’s passion for floristry blossomed, and she continued to grow and refine her skills even after leaving school to ultimately buy the business which was a huge leap of faith at the time. “Over the past twenty four years, I have never stopped learning as with each new trend there are new techniques and new flowers to experiment…

From making biscuits and pastries alongside her Nonna, Erica Noto fell in love with baking at a young age. It was then, she realised, she could see herself creating baked masterpieces as a career. After completing a patisserie course directly after high school, Noto landed a job at her local bakery. “Here I gained more skills and felt more of a passion to start my own business, Cocoa & Crumbs,” she says. “I fell in love with the process of talking to my customers who would describe their dream cake and turn this dream into a reality for their special day! The reactions of every customer seeing their dream cake, whether for their wedding or birthday, are so beautiful and always inspiring me to do more.” Sweet Science The art…

Based in Melbourne, Da Fonseca began photographing weddings in 2021 and made the leap to full-time in 2022. Since then, he has had the privilege of capturing weddings across Australia, with the chance to also attend international weddings. His approach to photography is keeping things relaxed, focusing on real moments, and ensuring couples have the best day possible. He’s passionate about what he does, and it shows in his work – focusing on genuine connections and documenting the day in a way that feels authentic and completely true to the couple. While attending weddings and soaking up the atmosphere is rewarding, Da Fonseca finds his greatest joy in the people he meets. “Every wedding has its own pace and personality, but at the centre of it all is a couple…